> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://openchemfacts.gitbook.io/openchemfacts-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://openchemfacts.gitbook.io/openchemfacts-docs/openchemfacts.md).

# OpenChemFacts

## What is OpenChemFacts?

OpenChemFacts is an open-data platform dedicated to the assessment of chemicals environmental impact. It provides transparent, reproducible and scientifically robust indicators derived from internationally recognized models.

The platform performs two complementary functions:

1. **Data collection and harmonization**, by integrating experimental and predicted endpoints (ecotoxicity data, biodegradation half-lives, physicochemical properties, etc.) from regulatory databases, national inventories, scientific literature, and industry contributions.
2. **Indicator calculation and interpretation**, by applying internationally recognized consensus models to transform raw data into meaningful environmental indicators. Examples include the derivation of ecotoxicity characterization factors using methods such as EF 3.1 and USEtox.

## Why OpenChemFacts ?

Chemicals are essential to modern societies, yet global chemical production is expected to double by 2030. At the same time, many substances exhibit hazardous properties that may affect ecosystems and human health.

However, environmental assessment remains challenging because of two major limitations:

* **Data fragmentation**: experimental data are often scarce, heterogeneous, or difficult to access.
* **Methodological gaps**: many substances still lack harmonized characterization factors required for comparative assessments.

Consensus scientific models are therefore essential to quantify potential impacts consistently across chemicals, products, and technologies.

OpenChemFacts addresses these challenges by combining experimental and predictive results with internationally recognized methodologies to generate transparent, traceable, and reproducible environmental hazard indicators. 

These results support applications in : 

* life cycle assessment, 
* ecodesign, 
* chemical substitution, and 
* environmental policy

## Open data and reuse ?

OpenChemFacts aims to make environmental data openly accessible and reusable. The platform supports a wide range of applications, including public policies, life cycle assessment, ecodesign strategies, and research activities.

All results are made available free of charge and are distributed under the [Open Database Licence](https://opendatacommons.org/licenses/odbl/summary/) **(ODbL)**, enabling reuse, redistribution, and integration into third-party tools and databases.